Definition
To incorrectly interpret a situation, often arriving at a conclusion that is more sensational or dramatic than the reality.
He saw them walk into a restaurant together and put two and two together and made five, assuming they were on a date.
When she heard the rumors of layoffs at the company, she put two and two together and made five, assuming she was about to be fired.
The media took a small incident and put two and two together and made five, blowing it up into a scandal.